Kathmandu, Oct. 15 -- Tenzing Sherpa became Nepal's lifeline during the 20th Asian Games after securing the country's first medal-a bronze in karate-on September 23. Three days later, women's kabaddi also bagged another bronze. For a country that wanted to win medals in double figures, the contingent of 135 athletes from 21 sports could only win two.

For Sherpa, the medal meant a lot. He became well-known overnight.

As the joy settled in, Sherpa awaited cash rewards from the government under the National Sports Development Directives, 2079.

The Cabinet, on October 9, announced cash rewards to the athletes, coaches and managers behind Nepal's two medals in the 20th Asian Games. And the money was transferred to the individuals' respectiv...